Castello Romitorio winery
Castello Romitorio is an esteemed winery located in the heart of Montalcino, Tuscany, set amidst rolling hills and ancient woodlands. The estate is centered around a historic castle that dates back to the 12th century, once serving as a fortress, monastery, and noble residence. In the 1980s, the property was acquired by acclaimed artist Sandro Chia, who restored both the castle and the surrounding vineyards, fusing his passion for art and winemaking. Today, Castello Romitorio is managed by Sandro and his son Filippo Chia, who together uphold a commitment to excellence and innovation in their wines.
The vineyards of Castello Romitorio span some of the most coveted terroirs in Montalcino. The estate’s primary focus is on Sangiovese, the grape behind the celebrated Brunello di Montalcino. The vineyards are planted at altitudes ranging from 200 to 500 meters above sea level, benefitting from a unique microclimate and diverse soils that range from clay to galestro and schist. This diversity allows the estate to craft wines with complexity, elegance, and a distinct sense of place. Sustainable farming practices are employed throughout the property, with careful attention to soil health and biodiversity.
Castello Romitorio’s portfolio is anchored by its Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, a wine that reflects the estate’s dedication to expressing the purity and character of Sangiovese. The Brunello is aged in a combination of large oak casks and French barriques, resulting in a wine of structure, depth, and longevity. The estate also produces a Brunello di Montalcino Riserva, made only in exceptional vintages from the finest parcels, and a Rosso di Montalcino DOC, which offers a more approachable expression of the region’s signature grape.
Beyond Sangiovese, Castello Romitorio explores other varietals through its Toscana IGT wines, such as RomiTòro, a blend of Petit Verdot and Syrah, and the vibrant Morellino di Scansano DOCG from its coastal estate. Each wine is crafted with an artisanal approach, combining traditional methods with modern techniques to capture the essence of the land. The estate’s cellars, housed within the ancient castle, are designed for optimal aging and preservation, ensuring that each bottle reaches its full potential.
Art is woven into the fabric of Castello Romitorio. The castle is adorned with Sandro Chia’s sculptures and paintings, creating a unique environment where creativity and viticulture coexist. The labels themselves often feature Chia’s artwork, making each bottle a collector’s item. Visitors to the estate can experience guided tours, tastings, and art exhibitions, immersing themselves in the world of Castello Romitorio.
Castello Romitorio’s wines have garnered international acclaim for their balance, finesse, and expression of terroir. The estate remains dedicated to continual improvement, with Filippo Chia leading research into clonal selection, vineyard management, and sustainable practices. Castello Romitorio stands as a testament to the harmony between history, art, and the pursuit of exceptional wine in the heart of Tuscany.